The Rochdale Asbestos Cancer Studies and the Politics of Epidemiology: What You See Depends on Where You Sit

Abstract

The history of the exploitation of epidemiology by the U.K. asbestos industry and the subsequent obscuring of the disastrous results of exposures is presented, exploring in particular the roles of Sir Richard Doll and his colleagues. Epidemiology, often regarded as a neutral science, is susceptible to socio-political influences.

Keywords:

• epidemiology
• asbestos
• industry influence
• Sir Richard Doll
• Julian Peto
• Rochdale